Arup, a global leader in engineering and design, has partnered with YJK, a prominent Chinese Mainland engineering software solutions provider, to launch AI Designer in Hong Kong. This innovative digital platform integrates artificial intelligence with advanced design optimization to transform structural engineering workflows, significantly improving efficiency, quality, productivity, and sustainability outcomes.
The strategic partnership combines Arup’s extensive global structural engineering expertise and computational design capabilities with YJK’s specialized software strengths in analysis, code-compliant design, and drawing production. The initial phase of AI Designer focuses on two core applications: structural design optimization for reinforced concrete and steel structures, and piled foundation layout and design optimization.
This launch represents a major step forward in modernizing Hong Kong’s construction industry, aligning with the city’s push for digital transformation and innovation in the built environment. By enabling engineers to rapidly evaluate multiple design options, the platform accelerates decision-making while maintaining rigorous technical standards.
In benchmarking tests using identical models, loads, and Hong Kong codes, AI Designer reduced design iteration time by approximately 82% (from 2.5 days to 0.5 days) and decreased over-limit components by around 88% (from 64 to 6), all while keeping engineer oversight intact. Additionally, optimization through the platform can reduce material usage by 10–20%, directly contributing to lower embodied carbon and supporting decarbonization goals in construction projects.
YJK’s structural design software (Hong Kong Code Edition) is officially recognized by the Hong Kong Buildings Department, and its broader suite holds certification under the Construction Innovation and Technology Fund (CITF). This local compliance ensures seamless adoption by Hong Kong engineering firms.
Theresa Yeung, Managing Principal, East Asia at Arup, highlighted the collaboration’s significance: “We are delighted to collaborate with YJK on the launch of the first AI Designer module. By combining Arup’s deep structural engineering and computational design expertise with YJK’s advanced software capabilities, we are empowering engineers with powerful tools that improve workflows, accelerate design exploration, and unlock new opportunities for innovation".
She added, “As projects become increasingly complex, AI Designer will enable us to assess a broader range of solutions more efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of technical excellence. This reflects our commitment to applying emerging technologies to deliver better outcomes for our clients, communities, and the built environment".
Chen Dailin, Chairman of Beijing YJK Building Software Co., Ltd., expressed enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to partner with Arup, an industry heavyweight with deep expertise in computational design. By combining YJK’s software capabilities with Arup’s optimization algorithms, AI Designer will deliver real impact by enhancing design quality, broadening the application of artificial intelligence in engineering, and supporting the development of a smarter, more efficient and resilient built environment".
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The platform’s development involved close collaboration between teams from both organizations. A signing ceremony in Hong Kong was attended by representatives from public and private sectors, underscoring growing interest in AI-driven solutions for infrastructure and construction.
AI Designer not only streamlines repetitive tasks but also allows engineers to focus on higher-value creative and strategic aspects of projects. This human-AI synergy is expected to improve overall project delivery, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability metrics critical factors as Hong Kong pursues ambitious green building and smart city initiatives.
The partnership positions Hong Kong as a regional hub for AI-enabled engineering innovation. With the construction sector facing pressures around productivity, skilled labor shortages, and environmental targets, tools like AI Designer offer practical solutions that blend global best practices with local regulatory requirements.
Looking ahead, Arup and YJK plan to expand AI Designer modules to cover additional structural elements and integrate further with BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows. The platform will continue to evolve based on user feedback from Hong Kong projects, with potential rollout to other markets in Asia.
This collaboration exemplifies how cross-border technology partnerships can drive meaningful industry advancement. By leveraging AI for optimization without replacing human expertise, AI Designer sets a new standard for intelligent structural engineering in one of Asia’s most dynamic construction markets.
Industry observers anticipate that widespread adoption could accelerate project timelines, lower carbon footprints, and foster greater innovation across Hong Kong’s built environment sector. As digital transformation gains momentum, initiatives like this reinforce the city’s competitiveness in adopting cutting-edge technologies for sustainable development.
